Do you remember what you were doing in August of 2016?
Maybe you were playing PokemonGo, taking selfies on Instagram in hopes of being the next influencer, picked to go to Fyre Festival (that surely wasn’t going to be a flop), or maybe you were doing the same thing you are doing today!
A lot has changed in 4 years, but I can still remember where I came from.
Four years ago, I spent my days working in a coffee shop making drinks, and my nights designing anything I could get my hands on for anyone who would have me do it.
A friend of mine told me about an Instagram post that he saw for some company called ROI Online, who was hiring a Creative Director Assistant. I had never heard of them before. Once I got home, I checked it out. The job sounded like something that was a perfect fit for me, so I didn’t waste a single second. I applied then and there.
A few interviews later, and a few friend requests too, I was offered the job and my life changed significantly for the better. I knew when I started that this wasn’t going to be just another job. It was my career. However, I think I underestimated what was in store for me.
I’ve spent a lot of time designing websites, learning new skills, and growing with a team that’s invested in growth. Most importantly I’ve changed—which is why, after 4 years of growing, I've decided to move onto the next chapter of my life. I will be leaving ROI Online and taking the next step in my career.
You often hear people saying that there was “never a boring day.” Well that’s definitely true with ROI Online. Most of our days were usually exciting in some capacity. Whether we were doing something, learning something, or just enjoying each other’s company.
(If you think there are a lot of pictures in this blog, just wait. There’s more to come. And there were so many more that didn’t make the cut, I mean, I was here for 4 years after all.)
I’m extremely thankful for all of the opportunities and experiences I’ve had at ROI, including being part of the first agency certified by StoryBrand; having a few to many shots of tequila at the christmas party; experiencing INBOUND18 in Boston; and every walk, happy hour, game night, and team dinner in between.
I’ve had the chance to work and grow with some of the most badass people in marketing, and this is definitely a place I will never forget. ROI has left a lasting impression on who I am as a person.
When I first started here, I wasn’t that confident in my work, or in anything I did really. I was always scared about what others thought and constantly second guessing myself and my work. I had to grow out of that fear, and move beyond it. You can ask some of my coworkers, but I tend to offer my advice quite often, whether it be professionally or personally. So it’s only fitting that my last blog I offer a little of advice to all of you out there.
So before I sign out for the last time from ROI, I want to leave you with my 3 tips for making the most out of your job and how you can grow to your fullest potential.
1. Stay On Top Of The Trends
The world of marketing is constantly changing. One lesson I learned at ROI is to never stop learning. The pursuit of knowledge is how we continue to grow. To avoid being stagnant, read books and articles, research new tools, and attend webinars when you can.
Don’t be afraid to get in there and just try new things out. You’ll be surprised at what you learn and how you might even be able to apply it to other places.
2. Never Take Feedback Personally
I’ve heard some of the most negative feedback about things I’ve created during my time here (from clients, of course). Initially, I used to let it eat me alive. I'd stress out and start to doubt myself and my skills.
One day, I was reading a client’s comment, and it clicked. “You don’t have to let this upset you. That’s their opinion, and it’s just as valid as yours.” A little switch of empathy unlocked inside me in that moment. I learned to let go, and just keep trying. At the end of the day, making the client happy is what matters the most.
3. Good Help Can Be So Hard To Find
You’re only as good as the team you have. Build trust with those around you, cultivate friendships, share your work with them (even if you aren’t in the same department), and don’t be afraid to ask for their thoughts. They might be the perfect user for you to test your work out on.
Surround yourself with people who are eager to do the work, who are just as curious and courageous as yourself. Being real and authentic with the people you work with allows you to make real and authentic work.
If you follow my 3 tips, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in your career and your future. Most importantly, you’ll be ready for anything that may come your way.
All of the things I've learned at ROI have helped pave the way for the next step in my career. I’m so thankful for everything I’ve learned, everyone I’ve met, and everything I’ve got to experience while here.
I’ll never forget the fun, the frustrations, the laughs, and all the great times I shared with the people at ROI Online. I need to cut myself off before I get too emotional.
Thanks for the last 4 years ROI Online. You will always have a special place in my heart!
